Stella Gilbert

The last time Nellie Oleson appears in the "Little House" books, she is a rival for Almanzo's attention in chapter 20 of These Happy Golden Years. In real life, three separate girls inspired the character of Nellie Oleson. Here's what the Wikipedia article has to say: 

The third girl, Stella Gilbert, was a poor girl who lived on a claim north of the Ingalls in De Smet. Though poor, she was reportedly very attractive and was interested in Almanzo Wilder. She convinced him to take her on several buggy rides, which were described in These Happy Golden Years. Almanzo, who was not aware of a conflict between Stella and Laura, eventually became aware of Stella's fear of horses (which greatly disappointed him). In addition, Laura eventually gave Almanzo an ultimatum regarding Stella, and Almanzo's invitations to Stella to join them on the rides stopped. This was the last appearance of a "Nellie Oleson" in the series.

Stella's older brother was Dave Gilbert, the brave young man (he was 17 at the time) who made the very risky run to Lake Preston, Dakota Territory on his horse drawn sled between blizzards to take the outgoing mail, and bring back the incoming mail as described by Laura in The Long Winter.

Stella died in 1944.

Hope you enjoyed this week's series on Nellie Oleson and her real-life analogs. More fun posts from the Laura Ingalls Wilder's "Little House" books coming soon!
Elizabeth

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